Justice Support Services

Respect the intrinisic worth of each human being

What are Justice Support Services?

Our Justice Support Services program assists individuals who are incarcerated, on probation, or navigating the court system in developing personalized recovery plans. We help them connect with and utilize community resources, access behavioral health supports, and more. Our Certified Peer Specialists and Certified Recovery Peer Advocate offer programming on-site at the Ithaca Recovery and Wellness Court, the Tompkins County Probation Department, and by appointment at our offices.

Our Certified Peer Specialists and Certified Recovery Peer Advocate in this program have specialized training in the criminal justice system. They not only provide mentorship but also provide hope and inspiration for those on their recovery journeys. They help individuals see the possibilities for their own lives and support them in making meaningful changes.

For more information contact our Justice Services Coordinator Larry Albro at lalbro@mhaedu.org or call (607) 273-9250. 

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How Can Our Justice Support Services Help?

Our Justice Support Services provide non-judgmental crisis support, emotional support, and relapse prevention. Our Certified Peer Specialists are here to help you:

  • Identify and build upon your personal strengths to maintain recovery goals and effectively manage mental health challenges.

  • Foster peer relationships and develop stronger natural support networks.

  • Enhance your social skills, enabling you to live, work, and participate more fully in your community.

  • Navigate community services and resources, ensuring you access the support you need.

  • Educate stakeholders in the criminal justice system about mental health recovery.

  • Advocate on your behalf when you’re unable to do so yourself.

What is a Certified Peer Specialist?

All Certified Peer Specialists (CPS) in New York State need to meet specific requirements: be at least 18 years of age, have earned a high school diploma, complete 13 on-line core courses at the Academy of Peer Services and publicly (self-determined) acknowledge that they have or are currently using mental health services. Certification also requires completing 2,000 hours of supervised peer specialist work. Certification is administered and authorized through the New York Peer Specialist Certification Board (NYPSCB).  New York Certified Peer Specialist certification is funded through the New York State Office of Mental Health.

What is a Certified Recovery Peer Advocate?

The primary function of a Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA) is facilitating outreach with individuals currently in a program or considering treatment. Utilizing their recovery expertise, professional training and lived experience, peers boost individuals' engagement in treatment and commitment to recovery. Our CRPA provides support in court rooms for individuals working through criminal justice matters. They also offers non-clinical crisis support, especially after periods of hospitalization or incarceration.

The New York Certification Board is the only entity authorized by OASAS to oversee the training and certification of Certified Recovery Peer Advocates in New York State. To learn more about becoming a CRPA, visit the NYS Office of Addiction Services and Supports.